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Star trackers emerge as new tool for high-precision space debris detection
Leveraging artificial intelligence, Neuraspace aims to refine its STM system into the most precise risk assessment tool available globally for space debris.
Star trackers emerge as new tool for high-precision space debris detection
by Staff Writers
Coimbra, Portugal (SPX) Oct 19, 2023

Neuraspace, a trailblazer in space traffic management (STM), has entered into a collaborative effort with Arcsec, a well-known supplier of star trackers. The alliance aims to employ Arcsec's star trackers in the detection and analysis of space debris, a move expected to bring a sea change in how space debris is managed.

The collaboration will facilitate Neuraspace in furnishing its clients with granular data about imminent collision threats in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). This vital information equips satellite operators to adopt timely countermeasures, thereby securing their orbital assets and contributing to the broader goal of maintaining a safe space environment. Furthermore, it minimizes the risk of expensive operational stoppages that can result from unexpected collisions with space debris.

In this partnership, Neuraspace will incorporate data generated by Arcsec's star trackers into its STM solutions. Through sophisticated data analysis, the company will be able to monitor and evaluate risks associated with even smaller fragments of space debris-down to a size of just three centimeters. Leveraging artificial intelligence, Neuraspace aims to refine its STM system into the most precise risk assessment tool available globally for space debris.

Neuraspace's Director and COO, Chiara Manfletti, remarked, "This strategic partnership with Arcsec marks a giant step towards space sustainability. Using Arcsec's cutting-edge star tracker technology to access in-space data will revolutionise space traffic management and safeguard space assets more effectively. Together, we are advancing the frontiers of space-based debris detection."

Manfletti also emphasized the gravity of the problem, adding, "Even a tiny piece of space debris can already pose a significant threat to space missions and assets. With the ability to detect and characterise space debris with unmatched precision, Neuraspace is poised to lead the way in ensuring the safety and long-term viability of space activities."

Arcsec's CEO, Tjorven Delabie, also weighed in on the partnership: "The collaboration between Neuraspace and Arcsec promises to be a game-changer in the field of space traffic management and protection. In our pursuit of advancing space situational awareness and sustainability, we are proud to collaborate with Neuraspace. This partnership exemplifies the synergy between cutting-edge technology and the preservation of the space environment."

Arcsec's star trackers come equipped with optical sensors that are placed onboard satellites to ascertain the spacecraft's attitude. These trackers have long been valued for their unmatched accuracy in star detection. However, it's not just the celestial bodies they are adept at spotting; these devices can also relay crucial data on the size of the space debris based on their brightness, enriching the existing debris database.

A notable advantage of Arcsec's technology is its dual utility. Unlike other systems that necessitate separate satellites outfitted with specialized payloads, Arcsec's sensors can detect debris while concurrently determining the spacecraft's attitude. This dual functionality ensures a high degree of accuracy in debris orbit calculations.

Further enhancing the value of these star trackers is their in-orbit re-programmability. This feature enables sensors already in space to receive updates that improve their space situational awareness capabilities. Given the rapidly evolving challenges and technologies in space, such adaptability is indispensable for maintaining a safe orbital environment.

ai.spacedaily.com analysis

Relevance Ratings:

1. Space and Defense Industry Analyst: 9/10
2. Stock and Finance Market Analyst: 8/10
3. Government Policy Analyst: 7/10

Comprehensive Analyst Summary:

Space and Defense Industry Analyst Perspective:

The Neuraspace-Arcsec collaboration marks a significant advancement in space traffic management and defense against space debris. For years, the industry has been grappling with the mounting challenges of space debris, which poses a risk not only to satellites but also to ISS missions and other space activities. The partnership could set a new standard in the granularity and timeliness of space debris data, using artificial intelligence and star trackers.

Stock and Finance Market Analyst Perspective:

From an investment standpoint, the alliance opens doors for both companies to corner a growing and critically important market. Arcsec's technology brings dual functionality, which may become a key differentiator in competitive bids and negotiations, thereby increasing its market value. Neuraspace could be positioned as the go-to company for space debris risk management, attracting increased investments and potentially leading to an increase in valuation.

Government Policy Analyst Perspective:

The partnership could significantly influence public policy on space debris and space traffic management. It aligns well with global concerns about space sustainability and might hasten regulatory steps to require such technologies for future missions. Governments may even become clients, or this technology may set the benchmark for future regulations.

Comparison with Past Events and Trends:

Over the past 25 years, the space and defense industry has experienced significant events like the formation of Space Force, commercial entry into space exploration (e.g., SpaceX), and international agreements on space use. However, space debris management has lagged. The partnership resembles the early days of GPS technology in terms of its potential for industry-wide impact and the creation of new ancillary markets. Unlike past attempts at solving the space debris problem, which were often reactive, this initiative is proactive and employs cutting-edge technology, integrating AI into its system, something that has only recently started to gain traction in the industry.

Investigative Questions:

1. How scalable is Neuraspace's STM solution, and does it have the potential to be integrated into larger, perhaps even governmental systems?

2. What are the likely financial implications of this partnership for both Neuraspace and Arcsec in the medium to long term?

3. How will this collaboration impact the competitive landscape of the space debris management market?

4. Could advancements in AI further refine the risk assessment tools, and if so, what would be the projected timeline for these developments?

5. How might this technology intersect with or influence upcoming international space regulations or treaties?

The Neuraspace-Arcsec collaboration represents a symbiosis of technological innovation and urgent need, potentially revolutionizing both the space and defense industry and the investment landscape. It might also catalyze a policy shift towards a more sustainable and safe space environment. As space activities expand, the risks and challenges posed by space debris escalate. This alliance addresses those challenges head-on, setting the stage for future trends in space traffic management, investment, and policy.

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